Miramar Back In Ranks Of Greenest Cities Again

MIRAMAR -- The city has reclaimed an honor it lost three years ago thanks to its renewed beautification efforts.

Last month, the city was designated a Florida Tree City for the fifth time after a short hiatus.

``We`re very proud to be named a Tree City again,`` said Bob Sherman, parks and recreation director. ``It was one of our goals to be recertified. This is a statement for the residents that the city has made a commitment to preserving and protecting our natural resources.``

The award comes in the midst of several programs created to enhance the city`s image. In the past several months, new city welcome signs, new logos on city vehicles, and tighter code enforcement have been implemented.

``This is all a part of that continuing effort,`` Sherman said.

The designation, from the National Arbor Day Foundation, requires candidate cities to meet minimum standards such as its own tree board or department, ordinances protecting trees, comprehensive tree programs, and Arbor Day observances.

The city has an annual planting program with local school children, and regularly has planted new trees along Miramar Parkway, Island Drive, and Embassy Boulevard.

Residents are proud of the award and the city`s efforts .

``Oh, this is certainly good,`` said Rose Lyn Chale. ``We need to do a lot more, but this is a step in the right direction.``

The foundation also requires that the city spend at least $2 per resident on tree programs such as planting or trimming hazardous trees. Miramar spent $91,000, or $2.24 per resident on tree-related programs.

``Trees are a commodity that need to be managed properly,`` Sherman said.

The city will receive a new plaque from the foundation later this year.